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Ahsan Manzil: The Pink Palace Museum

Explore the Pink Palace of Dhaka: A majestic museum showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the Nawab family and the history of Bangladesh.

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Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, is a historical landmark in Dhaka, Bangladesh, situated on the banks of the Buriganga River. Built in the 19th century, it served as the official residence of the Dhaka Nawab family and now operates as a museum showcasing the opulence and lifestyle of the Nawabs.

A brief summary to Ahsan Manzil Museum

  • Monday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 3 pm-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the palace in a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
  • Explore the local market near the museum for traditional Bangladeshi crafts and textiles.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a historical and cultural site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Ahsan Manzil is located in the Kumartoli area of Old Dhaka, next to the Buriganga River. If you are already in Old Dhaka, such as near the Bahadur Shah Park, you can easily walk to Ahsan Manzil. It's about a 5-minute walk from Bahadur Shah Park. Use Google Maps for precise directions, keeping in mind the heavy traffic in the area.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Ahsan Manzil via public transport, take a bus to the Gulistan bus stop. From there, a short rickshaw ride will take you to Ahsan Manzil. Bus fares typically range from BDT 10 to 50 depending on the distance and type of bus. A rickshaw ride from Gulistan to Ahsan Manzil should cost around BDT 20-50. Keep an eye on your belongings as public transport can be crowded.

  • Ride-Sharing Services

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao are readily available in Dhaka. Simply enter 'Ahsan Manzil' as your destination, and the app will guide you to the location. Fares vary depending on the distance and time of day, but a short trip within Dhaka could cost between BDT 150-200. Be prepared for potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Ahsan Manzil Museum

Ahsan Manzil, or the Pink Palace, stands as a testament to Dhaka's rich history and cultural heritage. Originally built in 1859 and completed in 1872, it was the residence of the Nawab of Dhaka, Khwaja Abdul Ghani, and named after his son, Khwaja Ahsanullah. The palace is a blend of Indo-European architectural styles, featuring Mughal and European design elements. The two-story palace, measuring 125.4 x 28.75 sq. meters, boasts a prominent dome and a grand stairway leading to the river. Inside, visitors can explore 23 galleries displaying portraits, furniture, and household items that belonged to the Nawab family. The museum provides insights into the lives of the Nawabs, their contributions to Dhaka, and the social, cultural, and political history of Bangladesh during the colonial era. Highlights include the Durbar Hall with its ornate ceilings and crystal chandelier, the Nawab's throne room, and the dining hall. The palace also features a library, archives, and research center dedicated to preserving Dhaka's heritage. The surrounding area offers a glimpse into the daily life of Dhaka, with local markets selling traditional crafts and textiles. After years of neglect and damage from natural disasters, the government acquired the property in 1985 and began extensive renovations, which were completed in 1992. Today, Ahsan Manzil is a branch of the Bangladesh National Museum and a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

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